Mike Scott has been under public scrutiny since his arrest on July 30 for possession of illegal drugs. Currently, Scott has a pending court case in which he could face up to 25 years in prison if convicted. The whole incident is a complete shock to this writer because Scott is really a good kid and has the most supportive parents in the world which I credit for his progression to the point of getting drafted into the NBA.
During media day, everyone wanted to know the status of what’s going on and what the future holds in regard to Scott’s position as a forward with the Atlanta Hawks. He’s become a valuable addition to the team and the decision of whether to replace him or move forward is one the coach won’t be able to make until the criminal case concludes.
According to what we eyewitnessed on media day and speaking with Scott, seems his focus has been on basketball since the incident and he’s been busy in the gym working out and getting prepared for a great season. Scott referred to the gym as his “sanctuary” and working out with his teammates as a great mental place for him during the past difficult months. When asked by the press for his comments as to the arrest incident and the charges, Scott refused to comment on the situation, however, he expressed remorse about how his actions impacted the team.
“I don’t like to make other people look bad,” Scott said. “I don’t like to embarrass people. I don’t want to feel embarrassed. I thought it made us look bad a little bit. I take full responsibility for that. Moving on.”
This writer was a little disappointed that Scott didn’t apologize to his parents, to the kids out there, especially in his hometown of Virginia who look up to him as a role model. Nor an apology for the incident taking place while his brother was with him, since Scott is a role model to his brother as well. But, of course, just because I didn’t hear him say it doesn’t mean he hasn’t ever said it to the press. Perhaps I had stepped away to the restroom or something.
At any rate, Scott has learned a valuable lesson, and probably a very expensive legal lesson as well.
